The Mary Book Reader

Saturday, January 30, 2016

Three years after a tragic accident left her a widow, ER nurse Taylor Cabot is determined to move on, checking off one item after another on her survival list. Her relationship with a handsome plastic surgeon even gives her hope for the last point―“fall in love again.” At least until crisis chaplain Seth Donovan steps back into her life, reawakening unanswered questions about her husband’s death.While in San Diego to train community volunteers, Seth hopes to learn why Taylor is backing away from the crisis team and from their friendship. But nothing prepares him for the feelings that arise when he sees Taylor again . . . and sees her moving on with another man.When a community crisis hits home and puts lives at risk, emotions run high and buried truths are unearthed. Will hope make the survival list?

Often called the author of "medical hope opera," Candace Calvert is an ER nurse who landed on the other side of the stethoscope after the equestrian accident that broke her neck and convinced her love, laughter--and faith--are the very best medicines of all.

Her popular medical drama series (Mercy Hospital, Grace Medical and Crisis Team) offer readers a chance to "scrub in" on the exciting world of emergency medicine, along with charismatic characters, pulse-pounding action, tender romance, humor, suspense--and an encouraging prescription for hope. Think "Grey's Anatomy finds its soul"!

A native northern Californian, mother of two and proud grandmother to eight, Candace is a passionate "foodie," equally at home with a whisk in her hand as she is penning stories. Folks who follow her on Twitter and Facebook will find photo-embellished recipes,funny insights into the writing life, snippets of upcoming work, and a chance at book giveaways. Please visit her website at: Candace Calvert - www.candacecalvert.com

Step By Step is the second book in the Crisis Team series. This book does not disappoint. Step By Step is a step up from the first book of the series. I really enjoyed reading this book and could not put it down once I started reading it. I loved the characters Taylor and Seth. They were developed very well and I loved the romantic tension between the two. The book also deals with forgiveness and healing after loss. You will enjoy this book when you read it. If the medical field is something that is intriguing to you then you will love it even more.

Friday, January 29, 2016

Color your way to peace and worship.We live in such a busy, hectic world—but what waits for you inside this cover is a way to quiet the noise, express creativity, and spend some sweet time with God. Each page features an original design from one of a dozen different artists, beautifully illustrating a contemplative quote from an inspirational writer, a beloved hymn, or Scripture. When we create, we echo the heart of our Creative God who designed everything and gave us the capacity to recognize beauty. So go ahead! You have permission to pick up your colored pencil and be reminded of truth in a fresh way.

A Christian coloring book for adults to reflect and relax with in your down time. Just what I wanted. I love that adult coloring books are so popular, even better when you have scripture and inspiration. I loved all of the pictures and the time of reflection.

This is the perfect gift and make sure that you pick up a copy for your self.

We all need a little bit of peace in our busy lives.

I gave this adult coloring book 5 stars. I HIGHLY recommend picking up a copy of this coloring book.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Shelley Shepard Gray’s first book in her Charmed Amish Life series is set in the quaint Amish village of Charm, Ohio, and tells the stories of the Kinsinger siblings who are each struggling to find both forgiveness and love in the face of tragedy.

Three months ago, everything changed for Darla Kurtz and her family. Darla’s father was responsible for a terrible fire at Charm’s lumber mill which killed five Amish men. And though he, too, lost his life, the town of Charm hasn’t looked at her family the same since. Even Lukas Kinsinger—with whom Darla used to have a close friendship.

Now her brother’s anger at the town is spilling over onto Darla, and she has the bruises to prove it. The accident already cost five lives, but if something doesn’t change soon, Darla fears it will cost her—and her family—even more.

Lukas Kinsinger wants to mourn the loss of his father, but he can hardly find the time to breathe. Suddenly the head of his father’s lumber mill and responsible for taking care of his three siblings, he’s feeling the pressure. He has also never felt more alone—especially with the new tension between he and Darla. But when he learns of her troubles at home, Lukas knows he can’t simply stand by and watch. Someone has to help her before another tragedy occurs.

As Lukas and Darla attempt to repair their families, they discover something deeper than friendship growing between them. But will Lukas and Darla’s love be accepted after so much loss? Or will the pain of the past overcome any chance of future happiness?

Shelley Shepard Gray lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. A busy wife and mother of two, she spends her days writing and keeping track of her two teenagers. Her two dogs keep her company when she writes in her basement.

Shelley enjoys writing about the Amish and visits Amish communities in Adams and Holmes counties several times a year. When not spending time with her family or writing, she serves on several committees in her church.

She also bakes a lot, loves coconut cream pie, and will hardly ever pull weeds, mow the yard, or drive in the snow.

Shelley also spends a lot of time on line! Please visit her website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com to find out her latest news...or become her friend on FaceBook.

This is an amazing read! A MUST READ!

I loved the happiness and Joy that was part of the ending of this book. I love it when people pull together for each other and look out for those they love. This had the best well rounded characters and the story as not like all the Amish books out there you will read something that I bet you have never read about in Amish books. I wish that I could share this book with everyone I know.

Love trumps everything. You are going to be glued to this book from page one.

I gave this book 5 stars. I highly recommend this book and I can't wait to read book two in the Charmed Amish Life series.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

A handsome newcomer with secrets shows a yearning Amish woman a chance at happiness—but their love will need all their courage to keep . . .Grace Blauch is skilled at midwifery—and crafting quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But a disfiguring birthmark keeps the young Amish woman from a husband and home of her own—until Mark King arrives from another community. His helpfulness and independent nature earn Grace’s respect. And he finds her outspoken ways and determination to do right irresistibly appealing. Soon Grace is planning a wedding quilt of her very own . . . until her father discovers that Mark’s shunned brother is hiding somewhere in town . . . Grace can well understand why Mark took such a risk once she hears his wrenching reasons. But she fears even prayer will not convince her father to restore his blessing on their union. She wills herself to face the end of her dreams, but sudden danger and an impossible act of generosity will show her that abiding hope can inspire the most precious of miracles . . .

Molly Jebber enjoys writing stories about Amish history and their culture. She’s a Women’s Christian Connection motivational speaker and enjoys meeting new people. She was raised in a small town in the Midwest, and insists if you had blinked twice, you would've missed it. She loves God, her family and friends, sunshine, swimming and traveling to the Amish communities. Creating historical Amish characters and throwing them into difficult situations and joyous times has been challenging and fun for her. The greatest reward she’s experienced in becoming an author is meeting wonderful people from all over the world who've been encouraging and supportive.

You don't want to miss this one!

Grace’s Forgiveness is book two in the A Keepsake Pocket Quilt series. You are going to really enjoy this one.

God sees us all as the same. But in this book your are going to see that people see with their eyes not their heart. Grace has a birth mark on her face and people are just ugly to her. I wanted to scream when I was reading how mean they were to her.

Then trouble comes to Mark, you have to read this book to see what's going on with Mark.

I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend you reading the series.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Hannah Yoder loves her quiet life on the banks of the Conestoga Creek. In 1842, this corner of Lancaster County is settled and peaceful--yet problems lurk beneath the placid façade. Hannah's father worries about the spread of liberal ideas from their Mennonite and Brethren neighbors. And Hannah blames herself for a tragedy that struck their home nine years ago. She strives to be the one person who can bind the threads of her family together in spite of her mother's ongoing depression and her sister's rejection of their family. But her world is threatening to unravel.When two young men seek her hand in marriage--one offering the home she craves and the other promising the adventure of following God's call west--Hannah must make a choice. Faithfully perform her duties to her family? Or defy her father and abandon her community?With a tender hand, Jan Drexler teases out the threads of a romance that will captivate readers in this brand-new Amish historical series.

Jan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s. Their experiences are the basis for her stories. Jan lives in South Dakota with her husband, their four adult children, two active dogs, and a cat. When she isn't writing, she enjoys hiking the Black Hills and the Badlands. She is the author of the Love Inspired novels The Prodigal Son Returns, A Mother for His Children, and A Home for His Family (September 2015).

This is one Historical book you should read even if you don't like to read Historicals.

Anyone dealing with depression will find a connection with this book. Its a pretty emotional read. But so well written you won't put it down.

I found the characters well rounded. The sister was one tough cookie.

This was the first book that I have read by Drexler, but it won't be my last.

You must read Hannah's story and share it with your friends. You won't be sorry. I can't wait to read book two in Journey to Pleasant Prairie series.

I gave this book 4 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Author and Bible teacher Sherri Burgess leads readers on her journey to understanding the purpose behind pain through the powerful story of her son Bronner’s earthly death. Using her rich, marvelous experiences of God’s works since her son’s heaven going, she provides comforting assurance that God truly is everything we need in this life. With a reader's guide in the back of the book, this makes an empowering resource for small-group discussion or book clubs. Bronner is much more than an inspiring story of faith in the worst kind of pain. It is a call to action and a beckoning to know our Holy God like never before!

Sherri Burgess’ life is a beckoning for you to know a Holy God like you have never known Him before. The wife of Rick Burgess of The Rick and Bubba Show, a nationally syndicated talk radio show, Sherri is someone who now passionately pursues holiness and inspires others to do the same. A seasoned Bible teacher, writer and blogger, she has in recent years answered God’s call as a women’s ministry speaker. This mother of five stays active with her family in Birmingham, Alabama.

This was such a hard book to write I'm sure but Burgess does it with so much faith is was just oozing off the page.

Readers are sure to experience God like never before while reading this book. A very heart felt read.

I was so encouraged by this book. Once you start reading this book you will not put it down until the very last page. Face God first that's just what Burgess did, and she wants you to learn from her story.

This is a must read book for all Christians. I gave this book 5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Shelby Kincaid is ready to move on from her grief. With high hopes for the future, she longs to purchase her family's ancestral homestead so she can raise her young daughters in the only place she ever truly belonged. She plans to transform the abandoned house into the perfect home of her memories. But she'll have her work cut out for her.AJ Sullivan never wanted the homestead. Inherited as a punishment from his grandfather, it has sat empty for fifteen years and fallen into ruin. He's glad to finally unload it. But a clean break isn't possible when he can't get the young widow Shelby off his mind.Welcome to Misty Willow, a place that will have as great a hold over the reader as it does over its inhabitants. With writing that evokes a strong sense of place and personal history, Johnnie Alexander deftly explores the ties that bind us to home--and the irresistible forces that draw us to each other.

Johnnie Alexander, author and freelance editor, writes stories that linger in the heart. The first of three contemporary romances, Where She Belongs, releases in January 2016 (Misty Willow Series, Revell).

Her debut novel, Where Treasure Hides (Tyndale, 2013), won the ACFW Genesis Contest (2011 Historical Fiction). "Beneath the Christmas Star," her first short story, appeared in the Guideposts anthology A Cup of Christmas Cheer--Tales of Joy and Wonder for the Holidays (2013).

Johnnie also has won the Best Novel award at the 2010 Florida Christian Writers Conference and both the Best Novel and Writer of the Year awards at the 2009 FCWC. She is a 2012 Bronze Medalist in the My Book Therapy Frasier Contest.

A graduate of Rollins College (Orlando) with a Master of Liberal Studies degree, Johnnie treasures family memories, classic movies, road trips, and stacks of books. She experiences farm life in the Memphis area with a small herd of alpacas and Rugby, the princely papillon who treed a raccoon.

This is my first book by Alexander and I must tell you not my last one. I loved every page and not jut because it was set in Ohio where I was born.

I loved the rich history and the generational differences in the characters were so much fun.

I can not wait to go back to Misty Willow in book two and find out what is going on. I would love to live in Misty Willow, the house seems like my dream house.

You are going to fall head over heels in love with Shelby's two daughters as well. Don't miss this one, you are sure to find your spacious place while reading this book.

I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Saturday, January 16, 2016

A great read for Dog Lovers everywhere (and those wanting to Honor our Wounded Warriors)

Amy Wallace has made plenty of mistakes in her young life, but she didn't see this one coming. Chris Seger is a marine serving in Afghanistan. His life is forever altered by a single, fateful step. A mother of another Afghan war vet suffers a devastating loss, which changes the course of Finley's life for good. Finley is a mostly golden retriever, who suddenly finds himself alone and confused in a dog shelter. Later, he's brought to a local prison to be trained in a special program for female inmates. Could this prison actually become the place where Finley finally finds his freedom? Rescuing Finley tells the story of how one rescue dog powerfully impacts three tragic lives and puts all of them on a road toward redemption and healing. Dan Walsh is known for page-turning, character driven novels. Fans of Dan's other novels, as well as dog-lovers everywhere will especially enjoy Rescuing Finley.

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of 14 novels and 1 nonfiction devotional, including The Unfinished Gift, The Reunion and The Discovery. He has won 3 ACFW Carol Awards, 3 Selah Awards, and 3 times his novels have been named as finalists for RT Reviews Inspirational Novel of the Year.

For those who haven't read Dan's books, reviewers often compare him to Nicholas Sparks and Richard Paul Evans. Although more recently, Dan has also started to pen suspense novels (like, What Follows After and When Night Comes). Dan has been writing fulltime since 2010. He and his wife Cindi have been married 38 years and have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren. They live in the Daytona Beach area, where Dan grew up. You can follow him on Facebook or Twitter, read his blog, or preview all his books by visiting his website at http://danwalshbooks.com/.

Dog lover or not you are going to flip over this book. I read it the day I got it and I must say I was so sad when I got to the last page, I did not want it to end.

I fell in love with Amy and Chris and of course Finley this is a feel good book.

I love that Walsh gave props to the veterans in this book. You are going to LOVE this can't out down book!

I am waiting for the next book in the A Forever home series, I can only hope and pray that it is half as good as this one was.

I gave this book 5 stars and I highly recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” —John 6:63

When Jesus walked this earth, He gave His followers more than one hundred life-changing promises. He also gave more than one hundred teachings for living in line with God’s priorities—commands that lift us up rather than weigh us down!

This 365-day devotional invites you to let Jesus speak directly into your life. Each reading begins with a red-lettered statement of Jesus, directly from Scripture, followed by a powerful reflection on how He wants us to apply His truths to our daily lives.

No problem you face today is beyond the help of Jesus. No question you ask is beyond the answers of Jesus. The more you get to know this loving Savior, the more you will love Him! So come, immerse yourself in His words. He is speaking to you.

Steven K. Scott is the New York Times best-selling author of numerous books including The Greatest Words Ever Spoken, The Jesus Mission, and The Richest Man Who Ever Lived. Using the laws of success he learned from the book of Proverbs, Scott and his partners have built more than a dozen highly successful U.S. and international companies. He is active in the executive leadership of Knowing Him International,a non-profit ministry. In his teaching ministry, Scott emphasizes the unique role and miraculous power of Jesus’ words in the lives of believers. He says, “As we abide in Jesus’ words, we can experience His fullness and come to know Him more intimately than we have ever imagined.” Connect at JesusWords.com.

Jesus Speaks is a great daily devotional book. Each daily devotional begins and ends with Bible scripture. The devotional is written as if it were Jesus speaking directly to you. Scott wrote the devotions in such a way that they are sure to be a blessing and uplifting as you read them to start your day. The Bible verses used are the verses where Jesus is speaking. There are 365 devotionals in the book to help you throughout the entire year. I am using the book as my daily devotional and feel closer to Christ as a result.

The only negative thing that I can write about the book is Scott uses different Bible translations throughout the book. I am partial to the King James version Bible. The versions used are New King James Version, English Standard Version, New International Version, New American Standard Version. The different versions do not take away from the book at all.

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Mallory’s mother died fifteen years ago. But her father’s last words on the phone were unmistakable: “Find . . . mother.”

Shame and confusion have kept Mallory Davis from her home for the last fifteen years, but when her dad mysteriously dies on his mail boat route, she doesn’t have any choice but to go back to Mermaid Point.

Mallory believes her father was murdered and childhood sweetheart Kevin O’Connor, game warden in Downeast Maine, confirms her suspicions. But Kevin is wary of helping Mallory in her search. She broke his heart—and left—without a word, years ago.

When Mallory begins receiving threats on her own life—and her beloved teenage daughter, Haylie—their search intensifies. There’s a tangled web within the supposed murder, and it involves much more than what meets the eye.

As answers begin to fall into place, Mallory realizes her search is about more than finding her father’s killer—it is also about finding herself again . . . and possibly about healing what was broken so long ago with Kevin. She just has to stay alive long enough to put all the pieces together.

Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, the ACFW Carol Award, the Romance Writers of America RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has over 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana. Visit her website at http://colleencoble.com/.

This is by far the best suspense book I have read this year (2015).

Coble has out done herself with this book.

I loved sitting on the edge of my seat all night I never saw most of this book coming.

Mallory and the game warden were so easy to love and of course Mallory's daughter.

Such a master story teller Coble is. You are sure to fall in love with the Sunset Cove series but you will find this one is outstanding and you will read it on one sitting.

I gave this book 5 stars two times. I Highly recommend this book.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Twenty–year–old Greta Miller's daed has been injured in a farming accident during the summer. The supportive Amish community tries to help out, but Greta and her sister must work outside the home to make ends meet, and so Greta rents a booth at the farmers' market. Because Greta is still in her rumspringa and free to explore the world, her family selects her to sell her homemade jams, jellies, and preserves to Englischers. Josh Yoder wants to court Greta, but years ago, he made the mistake of rejecting her during a seemingly innocent game; which resulted in him leaving the Amish. Three years later, he's back, but Greta wants nothing to do with him. Josh struggles to fit in and rebuild relationships he destroyed. Knowing Greta's family needs help, he steps in, hoping to win her back. When Greta admires one of his birdhouses, he gives it to her, hoping that it will open the door to more. But as their friendship begins to grow, a series of unfortunate events pull Greta away from the Amish, leaving her rejected by those she loves. Will Greta get beyond her family's distrust and return home? Will she prove her innocence? Or will she remain outside her Amish community?

Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor's wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.

Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press' Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.

A family in need of the community's help and the love sick Amish boy and Amish girl make up for a heart tugging story that you don't want to miss. You are sure to LOVE Greta and Josh.

Let me tell you, I got this book in the mail from the publisher I hurried and read the book I was reading and started The Birdhouse right away and I read it in one sitting I could not put it down.

Hilton has such a way with words and she makes you feel as if you are sitting right there in the pages of the book.

This was an intense but fantastic read. I gave this book 5 stars two times.

This whole series The Amish of Jamesport is remarkable and you all three are must reads.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Thank YOU!

I would like to take this time to thank all of the authors who have sent me books to read and review and given away books to very lucky winners on my blog. My mother always told me you can never say thank you enough. So THANK YOU all very much!
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About Me

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life I LOVE to get away in a super book. I love to cook and bake and spend time with my friends. I have the best Yorkies in the world, they love to lay with me while I am reading. The Lord is everything to me.I have an awesome husband! A small fact about me: I never leave home without a book!
Come on in and sit down with me and lets talk about books and have a virtual cup of tea together.